ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS “UNDENIABLE”

Alvin, Simon, and Theodore are back in 2008 with their first new non-soundtrack album in over 15 years. Undeniable features covers of major hits that have spent in excess of 100 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart (including six songs that broke into the top 20!), as well as four new Chipmunks originals. With the band’s 50th anniversary, the Chipmunks deliver yet another hit record as the follow-up to last year’s platinum-selling. With over 40 million albums sold worldwide, two #1 Billboard Hits, and 3 GRAMMYr Awards, the Chipmunks are a phenomenon that just won’t quit, and to celebrate their 50th anniversary Undeniable which was produced by Ali Dee (Speed Racer, Transformers, Garfield soundtracks).

THE CRITICISM

Alvin & The Chipmunks, Undeniable, is the latest album that seems to appeal more to the kids, but doesn’t actually bring in the distinctive feeling the way The Chipmunks used to, years ago. The album gears itself towards kids, and hopeful new fans who’ve loved last years’ movie. The collection does include a few new cover from Alvin, Simon & Theodore, including a cover of Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer, the classic Journey standard Don’t Stop Believin’, Blink 182’s All The Small Things(which was featured during the dissapointing Chipmunks video game), and a lackluster feeling of drive from Alvin on a cover of Daughtry’s hit Home. There are some things here to appease to classic fans, including the original Alvin & The Chipmunks theme song from the classic 1980’s NBC cartoon series, and a spooky cover of The Rocky Horror Picture Shows’ Time Warp, which would’ve given a better spirit if it was released earlier for Halloween.

TRACK LIST

1. We’re The Chipmunks (DeeTown Remix)

2. Shake Your Groove Thing feat Drew Seeley

3. Livin’ On A Prayer

4. Three Little Birds

5. Thank You

6. All The Small Things

7. Acceptance

8. Don’t Stop Believin’

9. Ho Ho Ho

10. Rock and Roll

11. Home

12. Undeniable

13. We’re The Chipmunks – Original Recording

14. Time Warp

I was pleasantly surprised when I was treated to the new upbeat sound that makes you want to tap your feet and dance a little jig. Listeners will be treated to different musical styles that include a little bit of rock, reggae, hip hop, and rap. Included on this album are remakes of two classical hits, Were The Chipmunks, and Ho Ho Ho, that added a bit of nostalgia.

The Chipmunks’ musical secret seems to be sincerity. These guys are playing it straight, no matter how silly they sound to us. The album’s highlight, “Time Warp” (from TheRocky Horror Picture Show), is guranteed to get toddlers up and dancing, and that alone is worth the price of admission.

The CD is a weird mix of standard covers and oddball novelty. There’s not that much to say about the CD that hasn’t been said. The Chipmunks do it up with modern flavor. But, what stands out is the mixing. This isn’t the classic Chipmunks. You’re getting a brand new style that will entertain the kids. You might end up plugging your ears, but that’s expected.